Congregation Mikveh Israel in Philadelphia, known as the “Synagogue of the American Revolution,” was founded in 1740 and is the oldest continuous synagogue and the second oldest Jewish congregation in the United States.

The congregation’s revolutionary ties run incredibly deep: its early roots connect back to 1752 as Nathan Levy owned the merchant ship that transported the Liberty Bell to America. Later, during the War of Independence, during a dire moment for the 13 Colonies, Haym Salomon used his personal fortune to heavily fund the Continental Army.

I would like to thank the distinguished Rabbi Yosef Zarnighian for his insight and support of this article.

Located in the heart of Philadelphia’s Old City, adjacent to the very building where the Founding Fathers debated and signed both the Declaration of Independence in 1776, Independence Hall, lies Congregation Mikveh Israel, “Synagogue of the American Revolution”. The synagogue building is a modern multi-story red-brick structure building designed by architects Harbeson, Hough, Livingston & Larson. Dedicated in 1976.

Inside the synagogue, the main sanctuary is designed in accordance with the congregation’s traditional Sephardic liturgical practices. The men’s wooden seating benches are positioned along the north and south walls, facing inward toward the center and the women’s seating is in raised wooden galleries looking down into the main prayer space. This design describes the quintessential Spanish-Portuguese Sephardic architectural layout. By positioning the benches along the north and south walls, the congregation faces inward to the central Bimah (Tebah). This U-shape formation leaves the middle open, creating a majestic solemnity.

Philadelphia’s Congregation Mikveh Israel seamlessly bridges 18th-century Spanish-Portuguese traditions with a dynamic, modern Jewish community. The historic Center City synagogue continues to practice the exact Sephardic rites established by its founders. While deeply rooted in these centuries-old traditions, Mikveh Israel embraces an inclusive, diverse membership today.

The congregation’s cemetery is now the oldest tangible evidence of Jewish........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)